Over the years, Charles City resident Darin McKenna had tried countless weight loss programs. With no success and his discomfort rising, McKenna considered the Healthy You Surgical Weight Loss Program at Waverly Health Center (WHC).
McKenna had a friend who had seen great success with weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, at WHC.
McKenna realized his weight was keeping him from doing things he wanted to do. He was ready to make a drastic change and improve his health. McKenna scheduled a free consultation with Dr. J. Matt Glascock and team at WHC. Dr. Glascock specializes in advanced laparoscopic and weight loss surgeries.
“Before surgery, I couldn’t hike or keep up with my family on vacation,” said McKenna. “I would get winded pretty easily and had to slow down.”
The Dilly family poses with the quilt.
McKenna had bariatric surgery in October of 2023. He was looking forward to the discipline that would be required following surgery. “As a patient, you take a big step when you have weight loss surgery,” McKenna explained. “You made an investment in yourself, so you want to stay disciplined with the post-operative guidelines.”
And disciplined, he was! McKenna lost over 75 pounds in nine months after surgery. He continues to maintain his weight loss. McKenna is thankful for the ongoing support provided by the Healthy You team in the General Surgery Clinic at WHC. “Anytime you need help, they’re there,” he said.
Julie Cousin, ARNP, serves as a patient care navigator for those going through Healthy You. She works with patients from consultation through follow-up appointments. Cousin sees firsthand how tough, yet rewarding, the journey can be.
“Weight loss surgery is a commitment, not a quick fix,” said Cousin. “Lifestyle changes and behavior modifications are key for surgery to be a success. Darin has done an exceptional job setting goals, incorporating exercise and following a particular diet, allowing him to maintain his weight loss.”
Recently, McKenna had the opportunity to compare his physical fitness to what it was before surgery during a vacation to Cancun, Mexico. He was able to confidently and successfully participate in all the activities, including hiking, swimming and snorkeling.
“The main goal for me was to regain my health,” McKenna said. “I’m looking forward to all the things I can do – traveling and hiking – now that I’m physically able to.”
To learn more about the Healthy You Surgical Weight Loss Program at WHC, click here.